Suggestions
Cynthia Payne
CEO - Age Services Specialist - Mental Health First Aider - NED & Experienced Chair - Speaker/MC - Business Mentor & Coach
Professional Background
Cynthia Payne is a highly accomplished executive leader with over 30 years of experience in various organizational roles, including more than 17 years serving as a director on both Not-For-Profit (NFP) and For-Profit (FP) boards. Her recent contributions to the boards include serving as a Non-Executive Director (NED) for the National Heart Foundation from 2017 to 2021 and as a Board Advisor for Total Constructions since 2018. Cynthia has also played a significant role as the past Chair for the LASA NSW Member Advisory Committee and as a Director for LASA Ltd during impactful unification processes.
Cynthia has a broad spectrum of experience leading and growing Anchor Excellence, a national consulting firm specializing in aged care board and executive services. Under her leadership, Anchor Excellence has flourished, boasting a team of 14 leaders who implement a range of programs and online learning initiatives aimed at enhancing leadership capabilities across various sectors. Cynthia's dedication to fostering an environment of improved operational efficiency, leadership, governance, strategy, and compliance is evident in the legacy she’s building within the organization.
Education and Achievements
Cynthia's impressive education complements her extensive career. She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of New England, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nursing from the University of Sydney-Cumberland Campus, and a Diploma of Applied Science from Cumberland College of Health Sciences. Additionally, she is uniquely qualified with a Certification IV as a Purna Yoga teacher (800HrRYT) and is also a Certified Practitioner of the Balanced Scorecard—a testament to her diverse skill set.
Cynthia’s leadership at SummitCare, where she served as CEO from 2002 to 2018, was characterized by notable achievements. The organization was recognized on three occasions for global excellence using the Australian Business Excellence Framework, receiving a Silver award in 2009 and two Gold awards in 2012 and 2014. SummitCare was also acknowledged in the Australian Growth Awards in 2015. Further accolades include receiving recognition from Australian Partnerships Australia in 2013 for her Chairmanship of the Arts Health Institute, and in 2018, she was honored with the esteemed ‘Woman of the West Award’ in the Business category by Western Sydney University on International Women’s Day.
Cynthia is a well-documented public speaker and MC, and she embraces opportunities to engage at conferences and significant events, helping ensure they reach their full potential. Her intrinsic motivation lies in empowering others, and she takes special pride in showcasing the values of Anchor Excellence during public appearances.
Professional Affiliations
Cynthia's commitment to governance and leadership is underscored by her certifications and memberships with various notable organizations. She is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (MAICD), a Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia, a long-term member of the College of Nursing, and a Fellow of the Manager and Leaders Institute. Her affiliations underscore her dedication to professional development and ethical governance in both the public and private sectors.
Cynthia’s journey exemplifies a commitment not just to personal advancement but to the empowerment and development of leaders within various sectors. By fostering collaboration and continuous improvement, she has positively impacted many organizations and individuals in her career.
For more information about Cynthia Payne and Anchor Excellence, please visit www.anchorexcellence.com.
